A Field Full of Opportunity

Graduates of our online Justice Studies master's program enjoy a broad choice of careers, from policing to policy setting.

The Justice Studies master's degree encompasses material beyond criminology and the law. You'll gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of justice-related disciplines and the many careers available to you. Our graduates leave with:

The ability to analyze and critique operational and public policy from social, administrative, juridical, philosophical and managerial perspectives.

The ability to apply legal and justice research strategies and techniques to real-world challenges.

An appreciation for the complexities of the criminal justice and legal systems.

An understanding of the role that morality and ethical reasoning play in the American legal system.

Types of Justice Studies Careers

MS in Justice Studies graduates may pursue careers in a number of organizations, including:

Federal:

Department of DefenseDepartment of Homeland SecurityFederal Bureau of InvestigationDepartment of TransportationFederal Trade CommissionVeterans AffairsCustoms AgencyImmigration and Naturalization ServiceFood and Drug AdministrationOffice of the Inspector General

Local:

Private sector:

A Healthy Forecast for Justice Studies Careers

Law enforcement positions are expected to grow by 11 percent through 2016, while private detective and investigative occupations are projected to grow by 22 percent through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Probation officers and other corrections opportunities are projected to increase 19 percent through 2018.

Careers for a Master's Degree in Justice Studies

Student OrganizationsJustice Studies AssociationSNHU's student organization for those interested in justice studies. JSA hosts special presentations from area professionals, arranges trips to various justice-related organizations and organizes community service projects.

Professional Organizations and AssociationsNational Criminal Justice Reference ServiceA federally funded resource offering justice and substance abuse information to support research, policy and program development worldwide.

VERA Institute of JusticeAn independent, non-partisan, nonprofit center for justice policy and practice. VERA combines expertise in research, demonstration projects and technical assistance to help leaders in government and civil society improve the systems people rely on for justice and safety.

National Institute of JusticeThe National Institute of Justice is the research, development and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Bureau of Justice StatisticsThe Bureau of Justice Studies is a component of the Office of Justice Programs in the U.S. Department of Justice. Its mission is to collect, analyze, publish and disseminate information on crime, criminal offenders, victims of crime and the operation of justice systems at all levels of government.

U.S. Department of JusticeThe U.S. Department of Justice’s mission is to enforce the law and defend the interests of the United States according to the law; to ensure public safety against threats foreign and domestic; to provide federal leadership in preventing and controlling crime; to seek just punishment for those guilty of unlawful behavior; and to ensure fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans.

The Justice Studies AssociationA nonprofit membership association established in 1998 to foster progressive writing, research, practice, and activism in all areas of criminal, social, and restorative justice.